Chapter 10 Summary

The narrator's brush with death intensifies his yearning for the widow. He compares these feelings to the temptation of Buddha by the Evil One, and resolves not to succumb. The narrator channels his restless sexual energy into the composition of his manuscript, Buddha. Zorba tries again to persuade the narrator to go to this woman. Although it is Christmas Eve, Zorba says God would prefer that the boss visit the widow rather than church, since that's what He would have done. If God had not approached Mary, he reasons, Jesus could not have been conceived. In the end, they both go to church, and the celebration of Christ's birth lifts their spirits. After the service, Zorba and the narrator enjoy a festive dinner with Dame Hortense. On leaving the lovers, the speaker again reflects on his happiness.